What is the difference between Clinical Pilates and other Pilates classes?
Pilates is a form of exercise which has a well-deserved reputation for building core strength, flexibility, balance and control. I really like the strong focus on precise movements, alignment and breathwork and I think of it as an intelligent approach to movement, uniting body and mind.
Clinical Pilates has evolved from the traditional Pilates repertoire of exercises but some of the movements have been modified or adapted by physiotherapists to create a programme which will be suitable for everyone, even if you have back pain or another health issue.
A Clinical Pilates instructor will have a clear understanding of how underlying medical conditions, injury or other physical issues might affect an individual’s ability to undertake specific exercises safely. This expertise means that they are able to make adjustments to enable all students to participate comfortably at the right level.
Clinical Pilates classes in Cambridge
All our Clinical Pilates classes follow the same teaching principles as a traditional Pilates class. You’ll experience the same development of your core strength, control, spinal mobility, flexibility and balance but they are safe even if you’ve been injured, had surgery or you have back pain.
Essentially, it’s the same comprehensive workout experience but – under the watchful eye of our Clinical therapists and Physiotherapists – you’ll receive skilled corrections and hands on support to guide you through each movement, ensuring that you maintain great form and safely get the most out of every session.
A Pilates workout, your way
With Group Classes, 1:1 appointments and live, online classes, there are three fantastic ways to work out with us! Call us to discuss the options … our team would love to help you find the method which suits you best. If you’re new to Pilates, you might want to take a look at the Beginners Pilates Introductory Series on our YouTube Channel. Here you’ll find some of the key exercises you might be taught in one of our classes and you can familiarise yourself with the techniques quietly at home.
A couple of quick tips for your practice:
- Breath work: sometimes trying a different breath pattern can help you find a bit more stability or mobility but when you first start don’t get too bogged down by whether you should be breathing in or out at various points during each movements. Often it doesn’t matter, as long as you are maintaining good form, and the most important thing is that you aren’t holding your breath.
- Be Consistent: Repetition is the language of your muscles… so if you want to build a strong foundation you should ideally practice several times a week.
What you learn on the mat will help you move more efficiently in everyday life! Every twist, hold, reach and lunge you complete in our Pilates classes means that you’ll move with more ease during your everyday and sporting activities.
So, if you’d like to experience the benefit of Clinical Pilates, just give us a call and we’d be delighted to help you start your wellbeing journey!
Blog written by: Franziska Ammann, Clinical Pilates Instructor & Remedial Massage Therapist.